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performance is to be effected by dint of wisdom"2 and equanimity.73 We may affirm here that the performance of action in the afore-mentioned spirit is rendered possible only when the ideal of Karma-yoga which is the same as Atmainc steadfastness is accomplished. “The Niskāma-karma is the natural accompaniment or result of a spiritually illumined life; it simply cannot exist if egoism is not completely annihilated.”74
In the view of Jainism the Tīrthankara exemplifies the ideal life of activism. He performs all actions dispassionately, and, therefore, spontaneously. But according to Jainism all the Bhavya-souls are not capable of this life of activism; only those souls which have earned Tīrthankara-bodymaking karma can lead a life of benevolent activities, while others remain engrossed in the life of contemplation which indirectly elevates human beings. Thus the life of activism, according to Jainism, cannot be the universal rule of life, though in the case of some souls it accompanies spiritual experience without being incompatible. But this does not negate punya-engendering activities of saints for the benefit of human beings.
REFERENCE:
1.
2. 3. 4.
Kathopanişad (Katha) 1, 2, 1.2, References to the Upanişads are to their editions from Gita Press, Gorakhpur. Chāndogyopanişad (Chānd) 5, 10, 1; 3; 5. Bhagavad-Gītā (BG), (Gita Press), 8, 26 Samayasāra of Kundakunda, (Rāyacandra Jaina Šāstramālā, Bombay), p.1; Gommatasāra, Jivakāņda, (Rāyacandra Jaina Šāstramālā, Verses 145-52.
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Spiritual Awakening (Samyagdarśana) and Other Essays
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